Susan Jarvi

Susan "Sue" Jarvi is a Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo. She also holds joint affiliations with the Tropical Conservation Biology and Environmental Science (TCBES) program. Previously, she served as Department Chair in both the Biology Department (2006-2009) and Pharmaceutical Sciences Department (2015-2016).

Education:

• M.S. in Veterinary and Animal Sciences (Genetics) - University of Massachusetts, Amherst
• Ph.D. in Biology - Northern Illinois University, DeKalb
• Postdoctoral Fellow - Beckman Research Institute, California
• Postdoctoral Fellow - Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC

Jarvi's research focuses on parasitology and conservation biology, particularly investigating Rat Lungworm Disease, avian malaria, and avian poxvirus in Hawaiian ecosystems. Her work bridges molecular biology with tropical conservation efforts, addressing both human and wildlife health.

Her recent publications highlight trends in parasitic disease diagnostics, avian immune system genetics, and ecohealth approaches to zoonotic disease management. Key journals include Current Tropical Medicine Reports, ACS Chemical Neuroscience, and PLOS ONE.

Scientific Awards:

• UH Hilo Excellence in Scholarly Creative Activities Award (2014-2015)

Current funding includes grants from the Hawaii Community Foundation Medical Research ($50,000), Hawaii Invasive Species Council ($65,634), and recurring state legislative appropriations totaling $1,770,000 (2018-present). She also generates laboratory revenue through diagnostic testing fees.

The Jarvi Lab at Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy Building (room 258) serves as her research hub, where she leads the Hawaii Island Rat Lungworm Working Group. Her work integrates tropical medicine, molecular diagnostics, and conservation science to address Hawaii's unique ecological challenges.